There is something timeless about a child holding a book, the quiet anticipation before the first page turns, the spark of imagination that follows. The Kids Book Bash, hosted by Shon’s Stories, celebrates that magic by bringing stories off the page and into the heart of the community.
The Kids Book Bash was designed as a free, family-friendly event centered on children’s literature to bring together local authors, families and young readers for a day rooted in storytelling and connection. More than a traditional book fair, it is meant to be an experience. For Shon, author and creator of Shon’s Stories, a children’s literacy platform that includes books, read-alouds and educational content, the idea grew from experience.
“As an author, I’ve attended a lot of book fairs that were for everyone. And while those are great, children’s authors were often just sprinkled in,” she shared. “I wanted to create something intentionally centered around kids, a space where they could meet authors who truly have a heart for children and storytelling.”
Unlike a typical book fair, this event invites children to engage directly. Young readers participate in a scavenger hunt-style activity, visiting authors’ tables and working toward earning a Shon’s Super Reader Certificate. Live read-alouds and giveaways donated by authors and sponsors add to the festive atmosphere.
“It’s a celebration of stories, not just a shopping event,” she said.
Shon’s motivation is also personal.
“When I was a stay-at-home mom, I was always looking for something to do just to get out of the house,” she explained. “I don’t want guests to come just because they need somewhere to go. I want them to leave feeling like they had an experience, something joyful, something memorable, something that makes reading feel fun instead of forced.”
She describes the Kids Book Bash as an extension of her larger mission.
“It’s one way we bring literacy to life in our community, not just online, but face-to-face, where children can experience the joy of books in a real and tangible way.”
Meeting authors in person can be especially powerful for children.
“When children meet an author, it opens their eyes. It becomes real. It’s like, ‘Wait… I can actually do that?’ Those interactions matter. They make big dreams feel possible.”
During the event, Shon will read her own book, Tell the Truth, Timmy. Inspired by her experience as both a mother and an elementary special education teacher, the story uses rhyme and bright visuals to teach social-emotional lessons.
“There are consequences for being dishonest, but there is peace that comes with telling the truth,” she said.
At its core, the Kids Book Bash is about more than books. It is about imagination, community and helping children connect reading with joy.
When asked what she hopes children remember most, Shon said, “I hope they remember that they had fun. If they can remember, ‘There were books, and I was happy,’ that connects reading with joy. And when reading becomes tied to a happy memory, that sticks.” Kids Book Bash presented by Shon's Stories will be held at Cliffdale Recreation Center at 10 a.m. If you have questions, you can email shonsstoriestoday@gmail.com. 

(Photo: Kids listen to a story during a Shon's Stories event. Photo courtesy of Shon's Stories' Facebook page)